Threat display or simply a yawn? If the former, it’s meant to warn off rivals or predators without physical confrontation. It’s sometimes accompanied by vocalizations or raised fur, which makes the tiny mongoose appear larger and more intimidating. Within the group, it can also be a way to settle dominance disputes or assert rank, part of their highly social and communicative behavior. I should state that even though it looks like she’s looking straight at me, the display started with her looking off to the side at other mongooses before she turned her head toward camera and closed her mouth. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor 500mm PF lens, ISO 2000, f/5.6 at 1/1000th of a second.
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Threat display or simply a yawn? If the former, it’s meant to warn off rivals or predators without physical confrontation. It’s sometimes accompanied by vocalizations or raised fur, which makes the tiny mongoose appear larger and more intimidating. Within the group, it can also be a way to settle dominance disputes or assert rank, part of their highly social and communicative behavior. I should state that even though it looks like she’s looking straight at me, the display started with her looking off to the side at other mongooses before she turned her head toward camera and closed her mouth. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor 500mm PF lens, ISO 2000, f/5.6 at 1/1000th of a second.
What a grrreat shot, Sean! I love the green head ornament, too!
Ha, yes, at first I thought that bit of green twig on the head was distracting but ended up thinking it added to the image.
Crazy little guy, lol!
No doubt. And so close to where we were eating lunch.
Unlike me, no cavities.
Unlike me too!!
Looks like he’s got good dental hygine
No doubt Tom. A perfect set of dientes.
I’m going with a yawn!
Good take Mo. I think you might be right.